Wilkerson Obstetrics and Gynecology

OB-GYN Surgical Procedures

The professional team of gynecologists at our Raleigh ob-gyn office are experienced in the latest medical technology. Our experience and continuing education allows us to deliver the highest quality and innovation in female surgical care.

We offer our patients a wide variety of in-office, out-patient as well as in-hospital surgical procedures to treat female health conditions.

Colposcopy

Office procedure used in the evaluation of an abnormal pap smear or cervical lesion. A speculum is placed in the vagina, and the physician uses a magnifying scope to examine the cervix and upper vagina. Tissue biopsy samples may be obtained at this time to guide further management. It is normal to experience light vaginal bleeding and brown discharge for several days following the procedure.

Cryotherapy

Office procedure to treat certain types of cervix cell abnormalities. A special probe is used to freeze an area of the cervix, destroying the abnormal cells. It may be used to treat genital warts or other lesions as well. It is normal to experience mild cramping during the procedure, and afterwards, a thick vaginal discharge will be present for 2-4 weeks.

Cone Biopsy

Outpatient surgical procedure used in certain situations to evaluate and treat abnormal cervical cells (dysplasia) which have the potential to progress to cancer. A sharp instrument such as a scalpel or laser is used to remove the concerning portion of the cervix.

LEEP (Loop Electrocautery Excision Procedure)

In Office or Outpatient surgical procedure used in certain situations to treat abnormal cells (dysplasia) of the cervix. An electric current is directed through a thin wire loop which is used to remove a portion of the cervix containing the area of abnormality.

Endometrial Biopsy

Office procedure used to examine the cells that line the cavity of the uterus. This test may be recommended in the evaluation of abnormal bleeding or infertility. A thin tube is inserted through the cervix into the uterus during a pelvic exam. A small amount of tissue is removed and sent to the lab for analysis. It is normal to experience cramping during the procedure and some light bleeding for several days.

Dilation and Curettage (D&C)

Outpatient surgery used for the diagnosis and treatment of abnormal bleeding. A similar procedure may be used to evacuate the uterus of pregnancy tissue following a miscarriage. The cervix is gently opened with dilators, and an instrument is then inserted through the cervix to clear the uterine cavity of any thickened tissue.

Hysteroscopy

In office or outpatient surgery performed to assess the cavity of the uterus. A small camera is inserted through the dilated cervix to allow the interior of the uterus to be visualized. This procedure is often combined with a D&C. Polyps, fibroids, and other intrauterine masses may be evaluated and sometimes removed in this way.

Transvaginal Ultrasound / Sonohysterogram

Imaging technique performed in an office setting to examine the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding tissues. A thin ultrasound probe is placed in the vagina and rotated in order to examine the pelvic structures. In certain cases, a sterile saline solution may be instilled into the uterine cavity through the cervix to improve visualization - a sonohysterogram.

Myomectomy

Surgical procedure used to remove benign masses (fibroids) from the uterus. Myomectomy is performed in cases where is it desirable for the patient to retain the uterus. Depending on their size, location, and depth, fibroids may be removed through an open abdominal incision or through a laparoscope or hysteroscope.

da Vinci® Robotic Assisted Hysterectomy Surgery

The da Vinci Robotic Assisted Hysterectomy Surgery is an innovative surgery which is less invasive and offers numerous potential benefits over traditional open surgery. Additional information can be found at the da Vinci Hysterectomy website.

Hysterectomy

Major surgical procedure used to treat various gynecological conditions such as cancers and precancers, fibroids and other growths, abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, and prolapse. The uterus is removed (and sometimes the tubes and ovaries), usually through an incision on the abdomen or in the vagina. This type of surgery may be recommended when other more conservative therapies have not provided adequate results.

Laparoscopy

Surgical approach involving the placement of a camera and various instruments through small incisions to allow access to the pelvis and abdomen. Operations performed through the laparoscope allow the advantage of shorter hospital stays, less postoperative pain, and a more rapid recovery period for the patient. Various procedures may be performed in this way including hysterectomy, treatment of endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and ectopic pregnancies as well as the evaluation of pelvic pain or infertility.

Endometrial Ablation / NovaSure Ablation

In office or outpatient surgical procedure used to treat heavy or prolonged menstrual periods by destroying the superficial tissue layer of the uterine cavity. Often a hysteroscopy and D&C are performed along with this procedure. For more information, visit NovaSure.com.

Tubal Ligation (Female Sterilization)

Procedure performed in women who request a permanent end to their fertility. Tubal ligation may be done during hospitalization for the delivery of a baby, either at the time of a cesarean section or through a small abdominal incision performed soon after a vaginal delivery. Alternatively, it may be done remote from a pregnancy as an outpatient procedure through the laparoscope.

Additional Health Resources

If you have questions or would like to schedule a surgical appointment please contact us. Our kind and knowledgeable OB-GYN doctors look forward discussing an individual treatment plan for improving your life and health.